We've Been Reading Hebrews 4 Wrong!
I have always read the following Scripture as referencing “scripture” when talking abut “the Word of God.” See if you are the same;
For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
(Hebrews 4:12 NIV)
What I did not realise is that the earliest Christian theologians – or as they are known today, "The Church Fathers", all viewed this as referring to Jesus Christ. (Click here for just one primary source.) Let me change “it” to “He” and include the next two verses to see if this reading fits.
For “Jesus” is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, He penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; He judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
(Hebrews 4:12 NIV with adaptions)
And now the next two verses,
Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess.
Hebrews 4:13-14 NIV
When I first saw this I was amazed that I had not seen it before. I was reminded of the opening stanza of Hebrews that I believe backs up this interpretation,
In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son.
Hebrews 1:1-2 NIV
I believe that modern theology has missed the mark when it comes to understanding the place and role of Scripture. I believe we've been reading Hebrews 4 wrong! I was always taught that The Bible was the ultimate authority for faith and practice - it's in almost everyones doctrinal statement. However the Church Fathers certainly did not believe that, rather it was, God revealed in the life of Jesus Christ was the ultimate authority – and all the Scriptures testified to Him.
More on this later… But for now, what do you think about this interpretation and what questions does it raise for you?